Multiple-component tampon applicator

ABSTRACT

There is provided a multiple-component tampon applicator formed from at least three separate components. A fingergrip having a reduced cross-section as compared to that of the barrel may be formed such that it is a separate component or is integrally formed with a barrel component. The reduced cross-section fingergrip provides exceptional grippability to the user. The multiple components may be formed from materials including, for example, biopolymer including starches and proteins, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, or any combinations thereof. Prior to assembly of the applicator and prior to loading the barrel component with an absorbent pledget, petals may be formed on the insertion end of the barrel using existing processes and equipment. Alternatively, a separate insertion tip component having petals may be formed. This separate component may then be connected to the barrel component either before or after an absorbent pledget is loaded into the barrel component.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to an insertion device, such as acatamenial tampon applicator. More particularly, the present inventionrelates to a multiple-component tampon applicator formed from at leastthree distinct and separate components.

[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0004] The majority of commercial tampon applicators are ofapproximately uniform cross-section and are formed from only twocomponents, namely a barrel and a plunger. The fingergrip, if any, isformed as an integral part of the barrel component. Some applicatorshave a fingergrip and a plunger of a cross-sectional area reduced fromthat of the applicator barrel. This feature has been found not only torender the tampon applicator more grippable, but it is also moreaesthetically preferred.

[0005] For current reduced cross-sectional area fingergrip tamponapplicators, the tampon pledget must be loaded into the insertion end ofthe applicator due to the smaller opening at the fingergrip end. Thus,these tampons are restricted to top or insertion end loading. Thisrequires the petals of the applicator, if any, to be post-formed totheir final shape after the pledget has been loaded. Post-forming ofpetals requires the material to be plasticized. Typically, plasticpetals are plasticized by heat and are easily shaped by the use of anexternal forming die.

[0006] On the other hand, cardboard petals are more difficult toplasticize and require the additional use of an internal mandrel. Usualmethods involve heating the tip to volatize the water (either existingor supplemental moisture), and then forcing the petal into shape usingan internal mandrel in conjunction with the external die. The internalmandrel has a cross-sectional area that is approximately the same as thebarrel's interior, and consequently would not be able to enter through areduced cross-sectional fingergrip area. Therefore, the necessity of theinternal mandrel to shape the petal tip has thus far precluded themanufacture of a reduced cross-sectional fingergrip area on a cardboardapplicator.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a tampon applicator, and morespecifically a cardboard applicator, that can be manufactured such thatpetal tips can be pre-formed or integrated on the insertion end of theapplicator barrel, prior to loading an absorbent pledget, using existingmanufacturing processes and equipment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a tamponapplicator that is assembled from at least three distinct and separatecomponents.

[0009] It is another object of the present invention to provide such atampon applicator that has a barrel formed from cardboard.

[0010] It is still another object of the present invention to providesuch a tampon applicator having a fingergrip with a reducedcross-sectional area compared to that of the applicator barrel.

[0011] It is a further object of the present invention to provide such atampon applicator having petals at the insertion end of the cardboardbarrel prior to loading the barrel with an absorbent pledget.

[0012] It is still a further object of the present invention to providesuch a tampon applicator in which the petals are pre-formed usingexisting processes and equipment.

[0013] It is yet a further object of the present invention to providesuch a tampon applicator in which the petals are formed on a separateand distinct insertion tip component that may be connected to a separatebarrel component either before or after a pledget is loaded into thebarrel component.

[0014] It is still yet a further object of the present invention toprovide such a tampon applicator that prior to assembly of theapplicator, and prior to loading the barrel component with an absorbentpledget, petals may be formed on the insertion end of the barrel usingexisting processes and equipment.

[0015] These and other objects of the present invention will beappreciated from a multiple-component tampon applicator formed from atleast three separate and distinct components. A separate insertion tipcomponent having petals may be formed. This separate component may thenbe connected to the barrel component either before or after an absorbentpledget is loaded into the barrel component. Also, a fingergrip may beformed as a separate component or it may be integrally formed with thebarrel.

[0016] The multiple components may be formed from materials including,for example, plastic, cardboard, paper slurry, pulp slurry, pulp moldedpaper, heat shrink plastic, plastic tubing, biopolymers includingcarbohydrates and proteins, or any combinations thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017]FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a multiple-component applicatorhaving three components that form the tampon applicator of the presentinvention;

[0018]FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a multiple-component applicatorhaving four components that form the tampon applicator of the presentinvention;

[0019]FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a three-component applicator of thepresent invention where the barrel component includes the fingergrip;

[0020]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an assembled three-piece tamponapplicator of FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fingergrip component of thetampon applicator of FIG. 1;

[0022]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fingergrip component accordingto another embodiment of the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a three-piece applicator accordingto yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0024]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of several embodiments of fingergripcomponents having various gripping structures according to the presentinvention;

[0025]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a fingergrip component accordingto another embodiment of the present invention;

[0026]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fingergrip component accordingto another embodiment of the present invention;

[0027]FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a fingergrip component accordingto another embodiment of the present invention;

[0028]FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a multiple-component applicatorhaving three components that form one embodiment of a tampon applicatorof the present invention;

[0029]FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the fingergrip and barrelcomponents of FIG. 12 in a heated former; and

[0030]FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a multiple-component applicatorwith the barrel and fingergrip formed in the heated former of FIG. 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Referring to the drawings and in particular FIG. 1, a firstembodiment of a multiple-component tampon applicator of the presentinvention is represented generally by reference numeral 10. Onedistinguishing feature of this applicator 10 is that instead of beingformed from two components, namely, a barrel and a plunger, it is formedfrom three distinct components. In a preferred aspect of this firstembodiment, the three distinct components are barrel 12, plunger 14, andfingergrip or fingergrip component 16.

[0032] The barrel 12 retains its approximately uniform cross-section,thus allowing petals 18 to be formed prior to pledget insertion. Thepetals 18 can be formed with the assistance of an internal mandrel, ifdesired.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 2, a second embodiment of themultiple-component tampon applicator according to the present inventionis depicted. This applicator 10 is formed from four distinct components.Again, as a preferred aspect of this second embodiment, the preferredcomponents are barrel 12, plunger 14, fingergrip 16, and insertion tip19. Petals 18 are formed on insertion tip 19. As such, an absorbentpledget may be loaded into barrel 12 either before or after insertiontip 19 is connected to barrel 12.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 3, a third embodiment of the multiple-componentapplicator of the present invention is shown. This applicator 10 isformed from at least three distinct components, namely, barrel 12,plunger 14, and insertion tip 19. Barrel 12 has a forward end 21. Inthis embodiment, fingergrip 16 is integrally formed as part of barrel12. An absorbent pledget may be loaded into barrel 12 through forwardend 21, prior to connecting insertion tip 19 to the barrel.

[0035] Barrel 12 of the multiple-component applicator 10 of the presentinvention may be formed from any suitable material. Suitable materialsfor forming barrel 12 include, for example, biopolymer, cardboard, heatshrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry,pulp-molded paper, or any combinations thereof. Preferably, barrel 12 isformed from cardboard. Barrel 12 may be formed from spiral wound orconvolutely wound cardboard.

[0036] Any individual component that forms the multiple-componentapplicator, and especially barrel 12, may be internally and/orexternally coated with any suitable material to enhance its strengthand/or reduce surface friction. Suitable coatings include, for example,cellophane, cellulose, epoxy, lacquer, nitrocellulose, nylon, plastic,polyester, polylactide, polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylchloride, silicone, wax, or any combinations thereof. It should also beunderstood that barrel 12, while depicted as a single component, may beformed from one or more components, such that when assembled, the one ormore components form barrel 12.

[0037] Plunger 14 may be formed from any suitable material. Suitablematerials for forming plunger 14 include, for example, biopolymer,cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing,pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, or any combinations thereof. Preferably,plunger 14 is formed from cardboard.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, fingergrip 16, as a separatecomponent, provides a way to create an applicator having a cardboardbarrel with pre-formed petals and, perhaps, a reduced cross-sectionalfingergrip area with an accompanying reduced cross-section plunger 14.Fingergrip 16 has two distinct ends, barrel or forward end 20 having adiameter approximately equal to that of barrel 12, and plunger orrearward end 22 having a diameter slightly larger than that of plunger14. Fingergrip 16 also has channel 26, which extends axially through theentire length of the fingergrip. Channel 26 has a cross-sectional areaslightly larger than that of plunger 14 so as to accommodate the plungerduring assembly of applicator 10. The pledget (not shown) is loaded intobarrel 12 through fingergrip or rearward end 24 of the barrel. Petals18, if any, on barrel 12 have been pre-formed into their final shape, asin FIG. 1.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 2, when insertion tip 19 and fingergrip 16 areformed as separate components, an absorbent pledget (not shown) may beloaded either through forward end 21 or barrel rearward end 24 of barrel12.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 3, when insertion tip 19 is formed as adistinct component, it also allows barrel 12 and fingergrip 16 to beformed as one component. With this configuration, an absorbent pledgetmay be loaded into barrel 12 through forward end 21, prior to assemblingthe multiple-component applicator.

[0041] By way of example, FIG. 4 shows the three-component applicator ofFIG. 1 assembled. Once an absorbent pledget (not shown) is loaded intobarrel 12, barrel forward end 20 of fingergrip 16 is connected to barrel12 at barrel rearward end 24. Plunger 14 is then inserted intofingergrip plunger end 22 through channel 26. Alternately, plunger 14may be loaded into channel 26 of fingergrip 16 prior to the fingergripbeing connected to barrel 12. Fingergrip 16 may be secured permanentlyto barrel 12 by any conventional method. Preferably, fingergrip 16 isconnected to barrel 12 with an adhesive. Outer edge 25 of fingergrip 16may be of such a size that it creates a continuous surface flush withthe outer edge of barrel 12.

[0042] It should be understood that the multiple-component tamponapplicators depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3 may also be assembled according tothe same basic tenets set forth for assembling the three-componentapplicator of FIG. 1. One distinguishing feature of the applicator ofFIG. 2 with respect to assembly, is that the absorbent pledget may beloaded into barrel 12 either through forward end 21 or barrel rearwardend 24. Therefore, the order in which the components are assembled maydepend on which end of barrel 12 the pledget is loaded. A distinguishingfeature of the applicator of FIG. 3, with respect to assembly, is thatbarrel 12 and fingergrip 16 are formed as one component, therefore, theabsorbent pledget must be loaded into barrel 12 through forward end 21,prior to assembling insertion tip 19 with barrel 12.

[0043] It should also be understood that each component of the tamponapplicator set forth above may be formed from one or more individualparts or sections (i.e. barrel 12, plunger 14, fingergrip 16 and/orinsertion tip 19 may be formed from one or more individual parts orsections that are connected to form the component) . In addition, itshould be understood that while each applicator component is shown aboveas being discrete and separate from each other, any two or more of thecomponents may be integrally formed and then assembled with the one ormore separate components. By way of example, the insertion tip 19, thebarrel 12, the fingergrip 16, and/or the plunger 14 may be integrallyformed, in any combination. In addition, any component that is made upfrom two or more parts or sections, as set forth above, may be connectedto form that component, prior to connecting with any other individualcomponent to form an assembled applicator 10. However, the overallapplicator will, nonetheless, have at least three components.

[0044] Fingergrip 16 can be formed from any suitable moldable material.Suitable moldable materials include, for example, biopolymer, cardboard,heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry,pulp-molded paper, or any combinations thereof. In a preferredembodiment of the present invention, fingergrip 16 is formed from pulpmolded paper.

[0045]FIG. 5 is another embodiment of the present invention. Fingergrip16 is formed with a connector ring 32 on barrel forward end 20.Connector ring 32 has a diameter slightly larger than the internaldiameter of barrel 12 so that fingergrip 16 can be connected and securedto barrel 12 by interference fit.

[0046]FIG. 6 is another embodiment of the present invention. Connectorring 32 may be formed with one or more tabs, ridges and/or slots 34. Oneor more tabs, ridges and/or slots 34 can interlock with correspondingtabs, ridges and/or slots (not shown) formed on the inner surface ofbarrel 12, thus securing fingergrip 16 to barrel 12. The one or moretabs, ridges and or slots may be formed on external and/or internalsurfaces.

[0047]FIG. 7 is another embodiment of the present invention. In thisembodiment, fingergrip 16 is formed from a heat-shrinkable material 36that has an initial diameter larger than the outer diameter of barrel12, and shrinks to a diameter at least as small as plunger 14.Heat-shrinkable material 36 at barrel end 20 is shrunk to fit theoutside of barrel 12 snugly. The union between heat-shrinkable material36 and barrel 12 can be reinforced with an adhesive. Plunger or rearwardend 22 of fingergrip 16 is shrunk so that it is just larger than theoutside diameter of plunger 14.

[0048] The fingergrip 16 may be formed with any number and/orconfiguration of gripping structures, to further enhance theapplicator's grippability. Fingergrip 16 may be smooth or, morepreferably, may include one or more patterned or textured structuresextending above and/or below the surface of the fingergrip.

[0049] The gripping structures may include, for example, one or moreabrasive materials, embossments, grooves, high wet coefficient offriction materials, lances, pressure sensitive adhesives, protuberances,slits, treads, or any combinations thereof. In addition, the grippingstructures may be formed in any shape, including, for example, arc,circle, concave, cone, convex, diamond, line, oval, polygon, rectangle,rib, square, triangle, or any combinations thereof.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 8, by way of example, several differentfingergrip embodiments having various gripping structures are depicted.FIG. 8A depicts fingergrip 16 with one or more bands 38circumferentially disposed around fingergrip rearward end 22. FIG. 8Bdepicts fingergrip 16 with one or more dot-like structures 40 disposedcircumferentially around fingergrip rearward end 22. FIG. 8C depictsfingergrip 16 with one or more circular structures 42 disposedcircumferentially around fingergrip rearward end 22. FIG. 8D depictsfingergrip 16 with two or more wavy bands 44 disposed circumferentiallyaround fingergrip rearward end 22.

[0051] It should be understood that the gripping structures may bearranged circumferentially around fingergrip 16 in any pattern suitablefor forming a gripping area. For example, the gripping structures canform a distinct pattern, such as, rows, columns or may be formedintermittently with breaks in structure or in any random order orpattern.

[0052]FIG. 9 is another embodiment of the present invention. In thisembodiment, fingergrip rearward end 22 may be formed with acircumferentially flared or ridge-like structure end 46, to furtherenhance the gripping characteristics of the applicator.

[0053]FIG. 10 is another embodiment of the present invention. In thisembodiment, fingergrip rearward end 22 is formed with a stepped taper tofurther enhance the gripping characteristics of the applicator.

[0054]FIG. 11 is another embodiment of the present invention. In thisembodiment, fingergrip rearward end 22 may be formed with a knob-likestructure 48 to further enhance the gripping characteristics of theapplicator.

[0055] Any combinations of the features depicted in FIGS. 8 through 11,and described above, are possible as well. In addition, the grippingstructures could be raised, depressed, or any combination thereof, withrespect to the surface of the fingergrip area. The gripping structurescan be formed in any shape, in any number, and in any pattern orconfiguration suitable for forming an enhanced gripping area onfingergrip 16. As such, it should be clear that the present invention isin no way limited by those features depicted or described above.

[0056] It is also understood that the cross-section of barrel 12,plunger 14, fingergrip 16 and insertion tip 19 can be circular, oval,polygonal or elliptical. Also, insertion tip 19 can be tapered,elliptical, dome-shaped or flat. Barrel 12 can be straight, tapered, orcurvilinear along its length.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 12 through 14, a method of assembling amultiple component tampon according to another embodiment of the presentinvention is depicted. Applicator 10 has independent or discrete barrel12, plunger 14 and fingergrip 16. To assemble the components, adhesive50 is applied to the fingergrip barrel end 20. As depicted in FIG. 13,fingergrip 16 is inserted into cavity 62 of heated shaper 64. Mandrel 60is inserted into fingergrip 16 housed in cavity 62. Barrel 12 isinserted over mandrel 60. The barrel 12 and fingergrip 16 are allowed toremain in position in heated shaper 64 for about 1 to 20 seconds andmore preferably 5 to 10 seconds.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 14, when removed from the mandrel 60 and heatedshaper 64, the fingergrip 16 is connected to barrel 12 at taperedrearward end 66. Plunger 14 may then be inserted into fingergrip 16.

[0059] The foregoing specification and drawings are merely illustrativeof the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention tothe disclosed embodiments. Variations and changes, which are obvious toone skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope and nature ofthe present invention, which is defined in the appended claims.

Wherefore it is claimed:
 1. A multiple-component tampon applicatorformed from at least three separate components selected from the groupconsisting of a barrel, a fingergrip, a plunger, and an insertion tip,wherein said at least three separate components are formed independentlyfrom one another, prior to forming said applicator.
 2. The applicator ofclaim 1, wherein one or more of said at least three separate componentsare formed from a material selected from the group consisting ofbiopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic,plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinationsthereof.
 3. The applicator of claim 1, wherein two or more of said atleast three separate components are formed from a material selected fromthe group consisting of biopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic,paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper,and any combinations thereof.
 4. The applicator of claim 1, whereinthree or more of said at least three separate components are formed froma material selected from the group consisting of biopolymer, cardboard,heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry,pulp-molded paper, and any combinations thereof.
 5. The applicator ofclaim 1, wherein at least one of said at least three separate componentsare coated with a material selected from the group consisting ofcellophane, cellulose, epoxy, lacquer, nitrocellulose, nylon, plastic,polyester, polylactide, polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylchloride, silicone, wax, and any combinations thereof.
 6. The applicatorof claim 1, wherein at least one of said at least three separatecomponents is said barrel, and wherein said barrel is formed fromcardboard.
 7. The applicator of claim 1, wherein said barrel has aforward end and a rearward end opposite said forward end.
 8. Theapplicator of claim 7, wherein said barrel further comprises three toeight petals disposed on said forward end.
 9. The applicator of claim 1,wherein at least one of said at least three separate components is saidfingergrip, and wherein said fingergrip is formed from pulp moldedpaper.
 10. The applicator of claim 1, wherein said fingergrip has aforward end, a rearward end, and an axially extending channel.
 11. Theapplicator of claim 10, wherein said fingergrip has a reducedcross-sectional area from that of said barrel, and wherein across-sectional area of said fingergrip at said forward end is largerthan a cross-sectional area at said rearward end of said fingergrip. 12.The applicator of claim 10, wherein said channel has a cross-sectionalarea adapted to accommodate said plunger.
 13. The applicator of claim 1,wherein at least one of said at least three separate components is saidfingergrip, and wherein said fingergrip further comprises at least onegripping structure.
 14. The applicator of claim 13, wherein said atleast one gripping structure is circumferentially disposed around saidfingergrip.
 15. The applicator of claim 13, wherein said at least onegripping structure is selected from the group consisting of one or moreabrasive materials, embossments, grooves, high wet coefficient offriction materials, lances, pressure sensitive adhesives, protuberances,slits, treads, and any combinations thereof.
 16. The applicator of claim13, wherein said at least one gripping structure is formed in a shapeselected from the group consisting of arc, circle, concave, cone,convex, diamond, line, oval, polygon, rectangle, rib, square, triangle,and any combinations thereof.
 17. The applicator of claim 13, whereinsaid at least one gripping structure is raised, depressed, or acombination thereof.
 18. An applicator having three separate components,the three separate components comprising: a barrel having petalspre-formed on an insertion end of said barrel prior to loading saidbarrel with an absorbent pledget; a fingergrip having a reducedcross-sectional area; and a plunger having a reduced cross-sectionalarea; wherein said barrel, fingergrip and plunger are formed as thethree separate components, prior to forming the applicator.
 19. Theapplicator of claim 18, wherein one or more of said three separatecomponents are individually formed from a material selected from thegroup consisting of biopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paperslurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and anycombinations thereof.
 20. The applicator of claim 18, wherein two ormore of said three separate components are individually formed from amaterial selected from the group consisting of biopolymer, cardboard,heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry,pulp-molded paper, and any combinations thereof.
 21. The applicator ofclaim 18, wherein at least one of said three separate components iscoated with a material selected from the group consisting of cellophane,cellulose, epoxy, lacquer, nitrocellulose, nylon, plastic, polyester,polylactide, polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride,silicone, wax, and any combinations thereof.
 22. The applicator of claim18, wherein said barrel is formed from cardboard.
 23. The applicator ofclaim 18, wherein said fingergrip has a forward end, a rearward end, andan axially extending channel.
 24. The applicator of claim 23, whereinsaid reduced cross-sectional area of said fingergrip at said forward endis larger than a cross-sectional area at said rearward end of saidfingergrip.
 25. The applicator of claim 23, wherein said channel has across-sectional area adapted to accommodate said plunger.
 26. Theapplicator of claim 18, wherein said fingergrip further comprises atleast one gripping structure.
 27. The applicator of claim 26, whereinsaid at least one gripping structure is circumferentially disposedaround said fingergrip.
 28. The applicator of claim 26, wherein said atleast one gripping structure is selected from the group consisting ofone or more abrasive materials, embossments, grooves, high wetcoefficient of friction materials, lances, pressure sensitive adhesives,protuberances, slits, treads, and any combinations thereof.
 29. Theapplicator of claim 26, wherein said at least one gripping structure isformed in a shape selected from the group consisting of arc, circle,concave, cone, convex, diamond, line, oval, polygon, rectangle, rib,square, triangle, and any combinations thereof.
 30. The applicator ofclaim 26, wherein said at least one gripping structure is raised,depressed, or a combination thereof.
 31. An applicator having threeseparate components, the three separate components comprising: a barrelhaving a fingergrip integrally formed thereon; an insertion tip; and aplunger, wherein said barrel, insertion tip, and plunger are formed asthe three separate components prior to forming the applicator.
 32. Theapplicator of claim 31, wherein one or more of said three separatecomponents are individually formed from a material selected from thegroup consisting of biopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paperslurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and anycombinations thereof.
 33. The applicator of claim 31, wherein two ormore of said three separate components are individually formed from amaterial selected from the group consisting of biopolymer, cardboard,heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry,pulp-molded paper, and any combinations thereof.
 34. The applicator ofclaim 31, wherein at least one of said three separate components arecoated with a material selected from the group consisting of cellophane,cellulose, epoxy, lacquer, nitrocellulose, nylon, plastic, polyester,polylactide, polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride,silicone, wax, and any combinations thereof.
 35. The applicator of claim31, wherein said insertion tip comprises three to eight petals.
 36. Theapplicator of claim 31, wherein said fingergrip further comprises atleast one gripping structure.
 37. The applicator of claim 36, whereinsaid at least one gripping structure is circumferentially disposedaround said fingergrip.
 38. The applicator of claim 36, wherein said atleast one gripping structure is selected from the group consisting ofone or more abrasive materials, embossments, grooves, high wetcoefficient of friction materials, lances, pressure sensitive adhesives,protuberances, slits, treads, and any combinations thereof.
 39. Theapplicator of claim 36, wherein said at least one gripping structure isformed in a shape selected from the group consisting of arc, circle,concave, cone, convex, diamond, line, oval, polygon, rectangle, rib,square, triangle, and any combinations thereof.
 40. The applicator ofclaim 36, wherein said at least one gripping structure is raised,depressed, or a combination thereof.
 41. An applicator having fourseparate components, the four separate components comprising: aninsertion tip; a barrel; a fingergrip; and a plunger, wherein saidinsertion tip , barrel, fingergrip, and plunger are formed as the fourseparate components prior to forming the applicator.
 42. The applicatorof claim 41, wherein one or more of said four separate components areindividually formed from material selected from the group consisting ofbiopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic,plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinationsthereof.
 43. The applicator of claim 41, wherein two or more of saidfour separate components are individually formed from material selectedfrom the group consisting of biopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic,paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper,and any combinations thereof.
 44. The applicator of claim 41, whereinthree or more of said four separate components are individually formedfrom material selected from the group consisting of biopolymer,cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing,pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinations thereof.
 45. Theapplicator of claim 41, wherein at least one of said four separatecomponents are coated with a material selected from the group consistingof cellophane, cellulose, epoxy, lacquer, nitrocellulose, nylon,plastic, polyester, polylactide, polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol,polyvinyl chloride, silicone, wax, and any combinations thereof.
 46. Theapplicator of claim 41, wherein said insertion tip comprises three toeight petals.
 47. The applicator of claim 41, wherein said fingergriphas a forward end, a rearward end, and an axially extending channel. 48.The applicator of claim 47, wherein said fingergrip has a reducedcross-sectional area from that of said barrel, and wherein across-sectional area of said fingergrip at said forward end is largerthan a cross-sectional area at said rearward end of said fingergrip. 49.The applicator of claim 48, wherein said channel has a cross-sectionalarea adapted to accommodate said plunger.
 50. The applicator of claim41, wherein said fingergrip further comprises at least one grippingstructure.
 51. The applicator of claim 50, wherein said at least onegripping structure is circumferentially disposed around said fingergrip.52. The applicator of claim 50, wherein said at least one grippingstructure is selected from the group consisting of one or more abrasivematerials, embossments, grooves, high wet coefficient of frictionmaterials, lances, pressure sensitive adhesives, protuberances, slits,treads, and any combinations thereof.
 53. The applicator of claim 50,wherein said at least one gripping structure is formed in a shapeselected from the group consisting of arc, circle, concave, cone,convex, diamond, line, oval, polygon, rectangle, rib, square, triangle,and any combinations thereof.
 54. The applicator of claim 50, whereinsaid at least one gripping structure is raised, depressed, or acombination thereof.
 55. A method of making an applicator having threeseparate components comprising the steps of: (a) forming a barrel havinga forward end and a rearward end; (b) forming a fingergrip having aforward end, a rearward end, and an axially extending channel betweensaid forward end and said rearward end; (c) forming a plunger having aforward end and a rearward end; and (d) connecting said forward end ofsaid fingergrip with said rearward end of said barrel.
 56. The method ofclaim 55, further comprising, following step (d), a step of insertingsaid forward end of said plunger into said channel of said rearward endof said fingergrip.
 57. The method of claim 55, further comprising,prior to step (d), a step of inserting said rearward end of said plungerinto said channel of said forward end of said fingergrip.
 58. The methodof claim 55, further comprising, prior to step (a), a step ofpre-forming three to eight petals on said forward end of said barrel.59. The method of claim 55, wherein one or more of said three separatecomponents are formed from a material selected from the group consistingof biopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic,plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinationsthereof.
 60. The method of claim 55, wherein two or more of said threeseparate components are formed from a material selected from the groupconsisting of biopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry,plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and anycombinations thereof.
 61. The method of claim 55, wherein at least oneof said three separate components is coated with a material selectedfrom the group consisting of cellophane, cellulose, epoxy, lacquer,nitrocellulose, nylon, plastic, polyester, polylactide, polyolefin,polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, wax, and anycombinations thereof.
 62. The method of claim 55, wherein said forwardend of said fingergrip has an external cross-sectional area slightlylarger than an internal cross-sectional area of said rearward end ofsaid barrel, and wherein said fingergrip and said barrel are connectablysecured by interference fit.
 63. The method of claim 55, wherein saidforward end of said fingergrip has an internal cross-sectional areaslightly smaller than an external cross-sectional area of said rearwardend of said barrel, and wherein said fingergrip and said barrel areconnectably secured by interference fit.
 64. The method of claim 55,wherein said forward end of said fingergrip further comprises one ormore internal tabs, ridges, slots, and any combination thereof, forsecurably connecting said fingergrip to said barrel.
 65. The method ofclaim 55, wherein said forward end of said fingergrip further comprisesone or more external tabs, ridges, slots, and any combination thereof,for securably connecting said fingergrip to said barrel.
 66. The methodof claim 55, wherein said rearward end of said barrel further comprisesone or more internal tabs, ridges, slots, and any combination thereof,for securably connecting said barrel to said fingergrip.
 67. The methodof claim 55, wherein said rearward end of said barrel further comprisesone or more external tabs, ridges, slots, and any combination thereof,for securably connecting said barrel to said fingergrip.
 68. The methodof claim 55, wherein said fingergrip is formed from heat-shrinkablematerial having a diameter larger than a diameter of said barrel, andwherein said heat-shrinkable material is shrunk to securably fit over anoutside surface of said barrel.
 69. The method of claim 68, wherein saidheat-shrinkable material is further shrunk at said rearward end of saidfingergrip to form a reduced cross-sectional area.
 70. A method ofmaking an applicator having three separate components comprising thesteps of: (a) forming a barrel having a forward end and a rearward end;(b) forming an insertion tip having a forward insertion end and arearward end; (c) forming a plunger having a forward end; and (d)connecting said rearward end of said insertion tip with said forward endof said barrel.
 71. The method of claim 70, further comprising, afterstep (d), a step of inserting said forward end of said plunger into saidrearward end of said barrel.
 72. The method of claim 70, furthercomprising, prior to step (d), a step of inserting said rearward end ofsaid plunger into said forward end of said barrel.
 73. The method ofclaim 70, wherein one or more of said three separate components areformed from a material selected from the group consisting of biopolymer,cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing,pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinations thereof.
 74. Themethod of claim 70, wherein two or more of said three separatecomponents are formed from a material selected from the group consistingof biopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic,plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinationsthereof.
 75. The method of claim 70, wherein at least one of said threeseparate components is coated with a material selected from the groupconsisting of cellophane, cellulose, epoxy, lacquer, nitrocellulose,nylon, plastic, polyester, polylactide, polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol,polyvinyl chloride, silicone, wax, and any combinations thereof.
 76. Themethod of claim 70, wherein said forward insertion end of said insertiontip comprises three to eight petals.
 77. The method of claim 70, whereinsaid rearward end of said barrel has a fingergrip integrally formedthereon.
 78. The applicator of claim 77, wherein said fingergrip furthercomprises at least one gripping structure.
 79. The applicator of claim78, wherein said at least one gripping structure is circumferentiallydisposed around said fingergrip.
 80. The applicator of claim 78, whereinsaid at least one gripping structure is selected from the groupconsisting of one or more abrasive materials, embossments, grooves, highwet coefficient of friction materials, lances, pressure sensitiveadhesives, protuberances, slits, treads, and any combinations thereof.81. The applicator of claim 78, wherein said at least one grippingstructure is formed in a shape selected from the group consisting ofarc, circle, concave, cone, convex, diamond, line, oval, polygon,rectangle, rib, square, triangle, and any combinations thereof.
 82. Theapplicator of claim 78, wherein said at least one gripping structure israised above, depressed below, or a combination thereof, a surface ofsaid barrel.
 83. The method of claim 78, wherein said fingergrip has areduced cross-sectional area than that of said forward end of saidbarrel.
 84. The method of claim 70, wherein said forward end of saidbarrel comprises one or more tabs, ridges, slots, and any combinationthereof, for securably connecting said barrel to said insertion tip. 85.The method of claim 70, wherein said rearward barrel end of saidinsertion tip comprises one or more tabs, ridges, slots, and anycombination thereof, for securably connecting said insertion tip to saidbarrel.
 86. A method of making an applicator comprising the steps of:(a) forming a barrel having an forward end and a rearward end; (b)forming a fingergrip having a forward end, a rearward end, and anaxially extending channel between said forward end and said rearwardend; and (c) inserting said fingergrip and said barrel into a heatformer, wherein said barrel and said fingergrip are fused into a unitaryfingergrip barrel portion.
 87. The method of claim 86, furthercomprising, after step (b), a step of applying adhesive to said forwardend of said fingergrip.
 88. The method of claim 86, further comprising,after step (b), a step of applying adhesive to said rearward end of saidbarrel.
 89. The method of claim 86, wherein said fingergrip and saidbarrel are formed from a material selected from the group consisting ofbiopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic,plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinationsthereof.
 90. The method of claim 86, wherein at least one of said barreland fingergrip is coated with a material selected from the groupconsisting of cellophane, cellulose, epoxy, lacquer, nitrocellulose,nylon, plastic, polyester, polylactide, polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol,polyvinyl chloride, silicone, wax, and any combinations thereof.
 91. Theapplicator of claim 86, wherein said fingergrip further comprises atleast one gripping structure.
 92. The applicator of claim 91, whereinsaid at least one gripping structure is circumferentially disposedaround said fingergrip.
 93. The applicator of claim 91, wherein said atleast one gripping structure is selected from the group consisting ofone or more abrasive materials, embossments, grooves, high wetcoefficient of friction materials, lances, pressure sensitive adhesives,protuberances, slits, treads, and any combinations thereof.
 94. Theapplicator of claim 91, wherein said at least one gripping structure isformed in a shape selected from the group consisting of arc, circle,concave, cone, convex, diamond, line, oval, polygon, rectangle, rib,square, triangle, and any combinations thereof.
 95. The applicator ofclaim 91, wherein said at least one gripping structure is raised above,depressed below, or a combination thereof, a surface of said barrel. 96.A method of making an applicator having four separate componentscomprising the steps of: (a) forming a barrel having a forward end and arearward end; (b) forming a fingergrip having a forward end, a rearwardend, and an axially extending channel between said forward end and saidrearward end; (c) forming an insertion tip having a forward insertionend and a rearward end; (d) forming a plunger having a forward end; (e)connecting said forward end of said fingergrip with said rearward end ofsaid barrel; (f) connecting said rearward end of said insertion tip tosaid forward end of said barrel; and (g) inserting said forward end ofsaid plunger into said channel of said fingergrip.
 97. The method ofclaim 96, wherein one or more of said four separate components areformed from a material selected from the group consisting of biopolymer,cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing,pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinations thereof.
 98. Themethod of claim 96, wherein two or more of said four separate componentsare formed from a material selected from the group consisting ofbiopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic,plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and any combinationsthereof.
 99. The method of claim 96, wherein three or more of said fourseparate components are formed from a material selected from the groupconsisting of biopolymer, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry,plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, and anycombinations thereof.
 100. The method of claim 96, wherein at least oneof said four separate components is coated with a material selected fromthe group consisting of cellophane, cellulose, epoxy, lacquer,nitrocellulose, nylon, plastic, polyester, polylactide, polyolefin,polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, wax, and anycombinations thereof.
 101. The method of claim 96, wherein said forwardinsertion end of said insertion tip comprises three to eight petals.102. The applicator of claim 96, wherein said fingergrip furthercomprises at least one gripping structure.
 103. The applicator of claim102, wherein said at least one gripping structure is circumferentiallydisposed around said fingergrip.
 104. The applicator of claim 102,wherein said at least one gripping structure is selected from the groupconsisting of one or more abrasive materials, embossments, grooves, highwet coefficient of friction materials, lances, pressure sensitiveadhesives, protuberances, slits, treads, and any combinations thereof.105. The applicator of claim 102, wherein said at least one grippingstructure is formed in a shape selected from the group consisting ofarc, circle, concave, cone, convex, diamond, line, oval, polygon,rectangle, rib, square, triangle, and any combinations thereof.
 106. Theapplicator of claim 102, wherein said at least one gripping structure israised above, depressed below, or a combination thereof, a surface ofsaid barrel.
 107. The method of claim 96, wherein said forward end ofsaid fingergrip has an external cross-sectional area slightly largerthan that of an internal cross-sectional area of said rearward end ofsaid barrel, and wherein said fingergrip and said barrel are connectablysecured by interference fit.
 108. The method of claim 96, wherein saidforward end of said fingergrip has an internal cross-sectional areaslightly smaller than an external cross-sectional area of said rearwardend of said barrel, and wherein said fingergrip and said barrel areconnectably secured by interference fit.
 109. The method of claim 96,wherein said forward barrel end of said fingergrip further comprises oneor more external tabs, ridges, slots, or any combination thereof, forsecurably connecting said fingergrip to said barrel.
 110. The method ofclaim 96, wherein said forward barrel end of said fingergrip furthercomprises one or more internal tabs, ridges, slots, or any combinationthereof, for securably connecting said fingergrip to said barrel. 111.The method of claim 96, wherein said rearward end of said barrel furthercomprises one or more external tabs, ridges, slots, or a combinationthereof, for securably connecting said barrel to said fingergrip. 112.The method of claim 96, wherein said rearward end of said barrel furthercomprises one or more internal tabs, ridges, slots, or a combinationthereof, for securably connecting said barrel to said fingergrip. 113.The method of claim 96, wherein said forward end of said barrel furthercomprises one or more tabs, ridges, slots, or any combination thereof,for securably connecting said barrel to said insertion tip.
 114. Themethod of claim 96, wherein said rearward end of said insertion tipfurther comprises one or more tabs, ridges, slots, or any combinationthereof, for securably connecting said insertion tip to said barrel.115. The method of claim 96, wherein said fingergrip is formed fromheat-shrinkable material having a diameter larger than a diameter ofsaid barrel, and wherein said heat-shrinkable material is shrunk tosecurably fit over an outside surface of said barrel.
 116. The method ofclaim 115, wherein said heat-shrinkable material is further shrunk atsaid rearward end of said fingergrip to form a reduced cross-sectionalarea.